In Anambra State, Nigeria, the governor has adopted a more stringent stance against the 'dead cities' operations that have been taking place every Monday since the beginning of 2026. This weekly shutdown is a result of directives from the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) following the arrest and lifetime sentencing of their leader, Nnamdi Kanu, in November 2025 on charges of terrorism. The shutdowns have become a systematic occurrence, significantly affecting the local economy.

The governor is now resorting to economic retaliatory measures to compel local workers to resume their activities at the beginning of the week. These 'dead cities' operations have reportedly caused substantial economic losses, amounting to hundreds of thousands of dollars in the South-East region of Nigeria since they began in 2021. The impact of these operations not only affects businesses but also the broader community, leading to ongoing tensions between the local government and pro-Biafran groups.

This escalating conflict between the Anambra state administration and IPOB poses profound implications for governance and stability in the region. Should the governor’s measures succeed, it may signal a crackdown on separatist activities, but it could also exacerbate tensions and unrest if the local population perceives these actions as oppressive. The situation highlights the challenges faced by state authorities in balancing economic development and social stability in a region marked by separatist sentiments and demands for greater autonomy.